Karmelo Anthony, a teenager from Texas, was convicted of killing Austin Metcalf, a high school athlete, during a track meet in 2025. Despite being sentenced to 35 years by a Collin County jury, Anthony has requested a public defender for his appeal, claiming he has no funds for legal representation. This comes after his family reportedly raised over $634,000 for legal expenses.
Following his conviction, Anthony filed for an appeal and requested a public defender, stating he is unable to afford legal counsel. This was noted in court documents acquired by Fox News Digital. The funds were raised through a GiveSendGo campaign but fell short of its $1.4 million target. Despite the substantial amount raised, the campaign was removed after Anthony’s conviction.
The fundraiser, managed by Anthony’s mother, Kala Hayes, aimed to support legal fees and family expenses. The description indicated that funds would cover various needs, including family relocation due to safety threats and basic living necessities.
“While legal defense is a critical part of this journey, the fund is not solely for legal expenses,” the campaign stated. “Funds will address urgent needs, such as relocation and security measures.”
Details about the family’s relocation plans remain unavailable. GiveSendGo’s policy requires clarity in fund usage, specifying that funds must only serve legal defense. These terms prohibit funds from supporting personal expenses parallel to legal costs. Furthermore, the money must transfer directly to a licensed attorney, not the organizer or the defendant.
The campaign initially launched shortly after Metcalf’s fatal stabbing in April 2025. GiveSendGo declared on X that the fundraising was used for lawful pre-trial purposes, and with the completion of these goals, the campaign has been concluded.
Both Anthony’s lawyer and GiveSendGo declined to comment on the situation when contacted by Fox News Digital.